Range: Breeds throughout most of lower 48 states, absent in much of southwest. Winters in southeast U.S. into Mexico, and along west coast.

Identification: (Aix sponsa)

In all plumages, a crested head and long tail help to distinguish this species. Male: A gaudy, multi-colored little duck. The dark crested head has green and purple iridescence, and bold white lines that extend around the throat, up the cheek, and around the crest. The bill is yellow, red, white and black. The red eye and orbital ring are obvious. The deep chestnut breast is specked with white. Bold black and white lines surround the tan sides. The dark back and tail show purplish iridescence. In Summer and early Fall adult males assume a cryptic female-like appearance, but still show a faint head pattern and red eye. Female: Gray-brown overall with whitish belly. Small crest and whitish patch around the eye are distinctive. The blue speculum has a white border on the trailing edge. Wing feathers may have a purple sheen.

Length: 43 (cm)
Wingspan: 71 (cm)

Voice:

In flight, a rising whistle woo-WEET. Males give a long buzzy jheeeEEEEeee.

Habitat:

Riparian woods, wooded swamps, shallow wetlands.

Behavior:

Nests in tree cavities and nest boxes. Often deposits eggs in nests of other Wood Ducks and Hooded Mergansers.

Feeding:

Dabbles for aquatic invertebrates. Eats a variety of plant foods, including fruit and nuts.